New York eyes year-long pause on giant data centers

The New York Legislature appears poised to pass a one-year moratorium on new large-scale data centers (over 20 MW), halting DEC permits while regulators develop guardrails and rate protections. If Gov. Hochul signs, New York could become the first state with a statewide data-center ban. The bill, S10642/A11560, would give time to craft energy rules to protect the grid and ratepayers, and includes a new rate, energy efficiency mandates, renewable requirements, and labor standards. Opponents from tech and business groups warn the measure could stunt economic development; lawmakers plan votes this week before leaving Albany, with Hochul's stance still under review.